Wednesday, November 30, 2011

IT’S NEVER ABOUT WHAT YOU SAY, IT’S ALWAYS HOW YOU COMMUNICATE IT….RIGHT?

I’ve listened to numerous audios about color personalities, and how to
convey to different people a message that relates to them…so its how you
communicate is how you get results.

Conversations occur constantly in every area of your day-to-day life.
We don’t even notice how many interactions or conversations we had by
the days end, but they happen, so that lame I’m not good at talking to
people is out the window…we communicate daily. What may start out as
workplace small talk could potentially become a huge step and growth in
your career or even a new opportunity to share what you do outside of
the workplace.

When promoting your services or business, a higher level of
professionalism may be expected. So being authentic and genuine should
be your number one skill but also having a balance of being forthright
and directive.

While we can’ t have every possible interaction or conversation
become successful, here are some key points as you look to polish your
interpersonal and communication skills and, at the same time, become
more authentic in your delivery.

1) Get more information before making a statement. Don’t
jump in too fast with your “I know for a fact” and Statements to prove
the point is incorrect, creates hostility in the conversation, and the
channels of listening shutdown. Also….don’t jump to conclusions. Pause, and ask another question
to either get more information for a full understanding of their
position or to have them expand so you can gain more understanding.

2) Keep everyone focused on the point, goal and intention.Create common ground
on which to share your perspective. This will help people maintain
understanding, stay on point with the topic, and to not hit any “hot
buttons” that may turn the conversation into a spiraling combustion!

3) Be sure to inquire more than advocate for your position or view!
Me…me….me….yes you, turns ears off! Conversations steer into the wrong
direction, or completely in a way you didn’t have planned. Many of the
times this can happen if you take a strong stance advocating your
position rather than taking the time to ask questions and to see their position or their needs. Stay humble. You may be right, but right in your own mind. There’s always two sides of the coin.

4) Lay it on the Line. Be REAL and authentic! Telling
people that you are new, or don’t know all the details yet, you are a
work in progress, etc..only shows your authenticity. Honesty shows you
are humble, and the conversation will allow people to connect more with
you when you come across “human”.

5) Develop a reputation of being a good listener. Be
careful to not jump in with the “me too’s” or “you gotta hear when this
happened to me”. People are interested in one major person when
speaking, and it’s always themselves. To develop better relationships
with your clients or soon to be clients, bite your tongue. No need to
jump in and fill every pause. Really listen to what they say and respond
with a question which will develop and stem off of their previous
statements.

You were born with 2 ears, and 1 mouth…so do twice the listening

6) After being a good listener then be a problem solver.You don’t always need to get a result, sale, or a paid service in your conversations.
Listening to your customers needs, and being a helper or problem solver
will create a strong bond and relationship. Your solution may not even
be one that you can provide for them. Just be that person who is genuine
and will recommend or help even if it doesn’t directly benefit you.

7) Develop your Small Talk. “Nice
weather we’re having” can get old real fast. Start to develop your
initial small talk more than the obvious. You can use your surroundings,
kids, something in common, or a compliment. Everyone likes to feel valued.
Even if you know everything in the area, maybe ask for their opinion,
or suggestions, or advice on the situation. I.e.: Have you eaten at this
restaurant before? What is the number one item I should not miss?
Developing your conversational skills is just that, a skill. To some
people, it comes a lot easier. Even chatty Kathy’s aren’t always
successful at this, just because they are outgoing and chatty. Having a
point, directing the conversation with leading questions, and having a
genuine interest in helping them in their needs will help you develop
stronger relationships and a new following.
Listen to Jay speak….I think you will dig what he has to say: www.thebuildersmindset.com